Samurai Asakura Saemonnokami Yoshikage by Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861), master of ukiyo-e style of Japanese woodblock prints. Continuing a theme which runs through many of Keniyoshi's samurai prints, Asakura Yoshikage prepares to commit suicide after finding himself in a hopeless situation, betrayed by his vassals and his household. After placing his helmet and armor on the ground, the samurai is cutting away his garments. At the lower left is a portable table with cups for sake, perhaps to be used at a ceremonial farewell feast prior to the final act of suicide.